Crotalaria retusa
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Crotalaria retusa Species ID: NMP-007, NCBI_Taxonomy ID: 171929,
wfo-0000533072 Scientific
Classification Kingdom: Plantae Phylum: Tracheophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Fabales Family: Fabaceae Genus: Crotalaria Species: C. retusa Synonyms: Acajuba
occidentalis, Anacardium microcarpum, Anacardium occidentale var. americanum,
and more. Description Crotalaria retusa is an erect annual herb, typically growing
between 60 to 150 cm in height. It features angular green stems and alternate,
narrowly oblong or wedge-shaped leaves that are dark green on the upper surface
and lighter beneath. The plant produces bright yellow flowers arranged in
racemes at the ends of the stems. Upon maturing, its thin-walled pods turn from
green to purple or black and contain about 18 to 20 small brown seeds. When
shaken, these mature pods produce a characteristic rattling sound, giving rise
to the common name "rattleweed" (CABI, 2024; Plants of the World
Online, 2024). Distribution and Habitat The precise native range of Crotalaria retusa is uncertain, but it
likely includes tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. The species
has been introduced to various tropical areas worldwide, where it has often
become naturalized and, in some cases, invasive. In Australia, it thrives in
the Kimberley region on sandy, clay, sandstone, and rocky basaltic soils,
commonly along creeks, rivers, and floodplains (CABI, 2024). Medicinal Properties · Anti-inflammatory Properties: Some studies suggest C. retusa leaf
extracts may help reduce inflammation (CABI, 2024). · Antimicrobial Potential: Research indicates that the plant exhibits
antimicrobial properties against some bacterial strains, though further
investigation is needed (Useful Tropical Plants, 2023). Pharmacological Studies · Toxicity Studies: The plant contains pyrrolizidine
alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause severe liver damage in both
humans and animals (CABI, 2024). · Livestock Poisoning: Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are responsible
for poisoning cases in livestock, particularly horses, leading to conditions
such as "Kimberley Horse Disease" (Wikipedia, 2024). ⚠ Known Toxicity Crotalaria retusa is known for its toxic effects. Ingestion of its
seeds or foliage can cause severe poisoning in livestock, particularly horses,
leading to symptoms such as weight loss, lethargy, and neurological issues. The
plant's pyrrolizidine alkaloids are also dangerous to humans and have been
reported as contaminants in honey, posing a public health risk (CABI, 2024;
Wikipedia, 2024). Additional Information · Soil Enrichment: Used as green manure and a fiber crop due
to its nitrogen-fixing properties, improving soil quality. · Ecological Impact: Despite its benefits, its invasive nature
and toxicity risks necessitate careful management. More Pictures References
External Links
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